Crossword Genius

Country’s leader working during protest (7)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

monarch

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'country's leader' is the definition.
The answer and definition can be both people as well as being singular nouns.
Maybe they are linked in a way I don't understand?

'working during protest' is the wordplay.
'working' becomes 'on' (on can mean working or activated).
'during' indicates putting letters inside.
'protest' becomes 'march' (marching is a kind of protesting).
'on' inserted into 'march' is 'MONARCH'.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for monarch that I've seen before include "Head of State" , "Sole hereditary ruler" , "Not a subject" , "one over realm?" , "Butterfly (emperor, say?)" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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